Having won three La Liga championships, four UEFA Champions League crowns, a Copa del Rey, and more than his fair share of controversy, Gareth Bale had finally decided to leave Real Madrid. His contract with the Whites was valid until June 30, and both parties opted not to renew it.

It was long before the grumbling, the criticism, and 'Wales. Golf. Madrid,' Bale was bought by Tottenham for €100 million. Since arriving from the Premier League, he'd shown himself worthy of the reported transfer value, scoring wonder goals and putting in match-winning performances at regular intervals.

When Gareth Bale's contract expired at the beginning of July, the veteran Welshman had already decided where he would be playing next season. It was Los Angeles FC who announced on June 27 that they have agreed to a one-year contract with an option for an additional year with the Wales international.

When will Gareth Bale debut for LAFC?

There was no Gareth Bale in Los Angeles FC's latest match, a stunning 3-2 triumph in the El Trafico derby against Los Angeles Galaxy on Friday, July 8 since his move from Real Madrid was not yet been finalized. In fact, MLS' 'secondary transfer window' had just begun on July 7.

Unfortunately, the Welshman was unable to practice with the rest of the squad because he had not acquired his P1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate. After being presented as a new member of Steve Cherundolo's squad, the Welshman showed signs of eagerness to play in Major League Soccer.

He is scheduled to make his LAFC debut on Sunday, July 17 against Nashville SC at GEODIS Park if all goes according to plan. LAFC's season runs from February to November, which is exactly when the Welshman will be concentrating on the 2022 World Cup.

The MLS regular season finishes on October 9 and the MLS Cup finals will be held on November 5 assuming LAFC advance to the latter round. Bale will have two weeks to prepare for their Qatar 2022 opener on November 21.